The feeling of constipation is uncomfortable but you're likely to encounter it at some point in your life. Millions of people around the world suffer from constipation. It is one of the most common digestive disorders that are present everywhere.

Even though constipation does not mean a serious health problem, it can indicate some issues in the body. Let's know more about constipation and find out what it is, the causes of this problem, and how you can get relief from symptoms of constipation.

Are you constipated?

How do you know if you are constipated?

Constipation is delayed emptying of the stomach. If you have less than 3 bowel movements a week, you are medically constipated. However, it is difficult to define it because normal bowel movement may mean different things for different people it can be once every 2 days to 3 times a day.

There are some signs which can help you to know if you are constipated.

Signs of constipation

If you notice one or more of the following symptoms, you may be constipated-

• fewer than 3 bowel movements in a week
• bowel movements that are hard, dry, or painful
• bloating and pain in the abdomen
• problem and have been bowel movements, feeling the need to strain or bear down
• feeling as if you have not completely gone
• nausea and vomiting

Causes of constipation

What causes constipation?

There are several reasons and factors that can cause constipation in different people.

Medication

There are some medicines that can result in constipation. Antidepressants, anticonvulsants, pain medicines, aluminum antacids, and blood pressure medications can cause constipation. If you take any of these medicines and you are feeling constipated, you need to talk to your doctor about it. Some changes or adjustments in your prescription may be necessary.

Diet

Your diet decides a lot about your physical and mental health. It also has a direct and big impact on your digestive tract. For a healthy digestive tract, it should get enough and the right nutrients. It needs lots of fiber. The colon needs fiber to stimulate it and help it contract. Your diet should have lots of fiber in it.

But how much fiber do you need?

According to experts, adults need 25 g to 31 g of fiber every day depending on their age and sex.

Water intake

It is very important to stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid many health issues and also to ensure that you stay healthy.

The job of your colon is to reabsorb water. But if you are dehydrated, your body will try to automatically reabsorb water, which will make you more constipated. That is why you need to ensure that you are drinking enough water every day.

Certain medical conditions

Diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Parkinson's disease, hypothyroidism, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel diseases, spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, or some of the medical conditions that can result in constipation. If you suffer from any of these conditions and you are also experiencing bubble movement problems, you need to talk to your doctor.

Changes in routine

If you get out of your routine, it can be difficult to have a good Bowel movement, especially in an unfamiliar environment. When you go out and travel, you are eating irregularly and so you may become constipated.